How to Clean Heat Vents for the Winter

As fall winds down and winter approaches, it’s time to prepare your house for cold weather. One area many homeowners forget is the heat vents. A simple cleaning of your heat vents can help your family breathe easier and your HVAC system work more efficiently all winter long.

Step 1: Collect Your Supplies.

• Sheet/Towel. If your vents are located up high on the wall or in the ceiling, a sheet or towel to place below your work area will catch falling dust.
• Vacuum Cleaner. A vacuum cleaner with a brush attachment is probably the easiest way to clean your vents.
• Duster. If you don’t want to use a vacuum, a microfiber or feather duster will do a good job, too.
• Screwdriver and flashlight (optional). A screwdriver is useful to remove the vent covers if needed. The flashlight allows you to inspect the ducts attached to your vent opening. It also allows you to see if any stray objects have fallen into vents located on or near the ground.
• A sink/basin with hot, soapy water (optional). If your vents are particularly dirty, hot water and soap can make them easier to clean.

Step 2: Turn off your HVAC system.

Step 3: Clean the vents.

If need be, place your towel or sheet on the floor under the vent. Use your vacuum or duster to remove loose dust. If any dirt remains, remove the cover. Soak it in hot, soapy water, scrub, and dry completely before replacing it.

Step 4: Inspect the vents and duct openings.

This step is easier if you remove the vent cover, but can be done with the cover in place if you prefer. Using a flashlight, look inside the vent opening for stray objects or food that might cause problems once your heat is on. Check for signs of excessive dust that might indicate your ducts need to be cleaned. Also check to make sure the duct is clearly attached to the vent opening.

For more information about maintaining your heat vents or other HVAC concerns in the Lorain area, contact Energy 1 Heating & Air Conditioning.

Our goal is to help educate our customers in Lorain, Ohio about energy and home comfort issues (specific to HVAC systems). For more information about heat vents and other HVAC topics, download our free Home Comfort Guide or call us at 440-201-2959.

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